India, Nov. 8 -- James D. Watson who helped identify the double-helix structure of the DNA molecule, died on Thursday at the age of 97. He breathed his last in East Northport, New York, on Long Island.

Watson's son confirmed the news of his death and said that he'd been moved to a hospice after being treated for an infection in a hospital, as per New York Times. His role in decoding DNA, the genetic blueprint for life, has made Watson one of the most important scientists of the 20th century. He also led the ambitious Human Genome Project.

However, Watson has also made numerous racist remarks in the past and has been mired in controversy as a result. Here is a look at some of his racist comments and beliefs.

Watson had made controversia...